It seems like the music act people would most like to see at Musikfest’s new Steel Stage main venue when it opens in August is none other than the “American Idol” runner-up who sold out its former main stage last year — Adam Lambert.

And the second most popular choice was another “Idol’ second-place finisher, David Archuleta.

After Musikfest this month announced three of its 10 headliners for the 2011 festival in Bethlehem — 1970s rocker Steve Miller, a cappella sensation Straight No Chaserand R&B/pop hitmakers Maroon 5 — Lehigh Valley Music asked readers who they would like to see.

In one week, the question drew 91 posted responses who offered a dizzying 88 suggestions for Musikfest to sign — ranging from the too-big-to-be likely Dave Matthews Bandto the provincial promotion of Stroudsburg-based teen band Forbidden Dream.

But the two camps for Lambert and Archuleta —well known for the enthusiastic support of their favs — made up more than half the suggestions.

Almost a third — more than 32 percent — chose Lambert. And more a quarter — more than 25 percent — chose Archuleta.

The only other act to draw more than three votes was electronic pop singer Owl City, who has never performed in the area but was scheduled to support Panic! at the Disco when that band broke up (ironically, a reconstituted band is touring again) and canceled its scheduled show in 2009. Owl City got five votes.

Lambert sold out Musikfest’s former 6,500-ticket RiverPlace main stage in 2010 and gave a very theatrical show, with lasers, choreography and costumes, make-up and masks and singing that was best when slow and sung well, such as an acoustic “Whattya Want From Me” or “Aftermath.”

So it would seem he has a chance at selling out the new 7,200- ticket Steel Stage.

It would also help that he plans to release “Glam Nation Live,” a CD/DVD, on March 22nd. Shot in Indianapolis on Aug. 31, it features 12 tracks plus a bonus cut. He’s showcasing clips on VEVO.

“Would LOVE to see Grammy Nominee Mr. Adam Lambert at Musikfest again,” wrote Debbie. “Saw him last year and he rocked the place !!! I was so proud of Mr. Lambert selling out the venue since I live in the Lehigh Valley.”

Archuleta hasn’t played Musikfest, but he had a near sold-out solo show at Allentown’s Crocodile Rock Café in March 2009, a sold-out Christmas show at Stroudsburg’s Sherman Theater in December 2009 and drew 3,700 to a co-headline show with Demi Lovato at Wilikes-Barre’s Mohegan Sun Arena in June 2009.

He also has a new album out – October’s “Other Side of Down,” which peaked at No. 13 on Billboard’s albums chart.

“David Archuleta, now his act is one to see live,” she wrote. “He is a fantastic singer and performer. He is absolutely breathtaking to listen to, and funny too! I also like Adam Lambert. Both are great. Neither one need any technical help for their vocals, like so many other performers do today.”

The list of suggested musical acts was broadly diverse. In included the rock of Avenge Sevenfold, pop-rock of Nickleback, ‘tween singer Miranda Cosgrove(‘tween singer Selena Gomezsold out RiverPlace last year, and Cosgrove just sold out Keswick Theater in Glenside.)

Also, Rush, who played Allentown Fair last year, rockers UFO, Cheap Trick, Furthur(who drew more than 4,000 to Stabler Arena last year), The Scorpions(who are on a farewell tour), The Pretenders and more.

David Archuleta performing as a headliner at the Musikfest would fill the arena with no problem. It's all about the voice and his connection with the audience in his performances. He doesn't need to have a dramatic theatrical show, in order to wow a crowd and fill in an arena of fans.

Posted By: I love music | Feb 16, 2011 8:11:51 AM

Please Please let it be David Archuleta

Posted By: Shelia Golden | Feb 16, 2011 8:12:40 AM

It is all about the voice. And Adam Lambert has THE voice. It is incomparable. And he doesn't need theatrics either...witness any of his acoustic performances. That voice SHINES.

Posted By: Susie | Feb 16, 2011 8:22:46 AM

if David Archuleta is there, I will be there.. love this guy. His shows and vocals are out of this world amazing.!! He's such a charmer too. Please let it happen

Would love to see David Archuleta perform at Musikfest! David is an incredible talent & his new album "The Other Side Of Down" is amazing!

Posted By: Stephanie and Danielle | Feb 16, 2011 8:33:31 AM

I'm a 5 hour drive from Musikfest. I drove there last year to see Adam and I drove to Wilkes-Barre to see Adam. I'd love to see him there again. However, John Moser has a hair across his butt when it comes to Adam. Not sure what his problem is but it sure is personal and not professional. Moser started attacking Adam even before he stepped foot on the stage. Moser lost all credibility for a lot of us. If you can't be objective why write an entertainment column? As for Archuleta if he was playing the same night or the night before or after I might hang around to see him too maybe even Owl City. I stayed for 2 nights last year. To Archie fans please stop being rude. I know you like your guy but no need to pull a Moser and diss Adam. It just makes you look silly and petty.

Posted By: LC | Feb 16, 2011 8:36:20 AM

David Archuleta is a talent like no other. He has a heart of gold and when he sings...it is not only with his voice, but with his pure angelic heart! He rocks every performance he ever gives in a very genuine, authentic, real way! He is totally the real deal...and such a spectacular performer!!! Please choose David!!!

Posted By: Kath | Feb 16, 2011 8:47:25 AM

omg, ADAM!!!!!! I love his concerts! He can totally rock it out! And his acoustic performances are breathtaking!

Posted By: Brigette | Feb 16, 2011 8:51:51 AM

David Archuleta!..hands down! If you've never seen David LIVE...treat yourself. You will walk away a different person..counting the days until you can see him again..seriously! There is no one who compares when it comes to the way he makes you feel when he sings..the way he takes you along to wherever he goes in a song. Love this young man!

Posted By: Marylee | Feb 16, 2011 8:54:16 AM

David Archuleta puts on an incredible live show, I'd be there for sure (and bring everyone I know!) if he was headlining... excellent choice! There's nothing like hearing his amazing voice live ... chills to the max.

His new album is called "The Other Side of Down" btw (not "Dawn" lol), soulful pop at its best!

Posted By: Ryan | Feb 16, 2011 8:56:59 AM

I will definitely be there if David Archuleta is performing!

Posted By: Cathy | Feb 16, 2011 9:05:28 AM

Adam Lambert is the real deal! That dude delivers on stage like no one else! His voice is unmatched, and the energy that flows back and fort from him to the audience is incredible!! One of the best live performance I've witnessed!

Posted By: EllieG | Feb 16, 2011 9:12:35 AM

Mumford and Sons

Posted By: Ron | Feb 16, 2011 9:23:48 AM

I know this might kill you (knowing how much you love Adam Lambert), but you can now update your descriptor for Adam to "GRAMMY-NOMINATED artist" and drop the 'AI runner-up'. Thanks.
David Archuleta has a beautiful voice and I'm sure would put on a nice show too, but my vote goes to Adam. To address one post-er, Adam doesn't need all the lasers, dancers, etc. either - it's just how he chose to present that tour -and it was a blast to experience! He will be working on his new album this year, so most likely will not be doing this gig, but if he did, you can be sure it would not be the same as last summer's show -he's already moved on from that. One thing that you can count on is that he will always be changing things up and surprising (in a good way). And the things that remain consistent are an incredible voice and an entertaining show.

Posted By: dhb | Feb 16, 2011 9:30:58 AM

Both good choices but I will only pay to see David Archuleta. He is an amazing performer live. If he's there, I'm there!!

Posted By: waffles | Feb 16, 2011 9:43:05 AM

David's live performances are out of this world amazing! PLEASE get him to headline!!

Posted By: casey | Feb 16, 2011 10:05:46 AM

Adam isn't touring this summer. He'll be finalizing his second CD.

Posted By: DB | Feb 16, 2011 10:13:43 AM

Oh, and I've seen and met BOTH Adam and David A. multiple times each; there is room in one's heart and soul to be a fan of both, you know.

I'd be there with bells on for either performer.

Posted By: DB | Feb 16, 2011 10:17:44 AM

Would love to see and hear David Archuleta live. Have yet to see him perform songs from his album out in October so I would be thrilled at the opportunity.

Posted By: LaLiliana | Feb 16, 2011 10:31:28 AM

I saw David at both the Crocodile Rock and the Christmas show at the Sherman theater. Believe me, Crocodile show sure felt sold out to me, we were like sardines in there! I've never seen or heard anything like what I witnessed at the Sherman theater. David, and the reaction to David, was beyond belief. He was fantastic. I've never been to Musikfest, but I'd go to see David in an instant.

Posted By: Jeff | Feb 16, 2011 10:38:19 AM

Adam and David are two talented runner-up that came out of AI. but I can only say this....give yourself a chance to see one of David Archuleta's concert, he is an incredible performer you don't want to miss. No doubt in my mind, he is one naturally gifted artist with amzing vocal ability that can move emotion if you let yourself be. His music captivated people of all ages. He definitely
worth to be a Musikfest headliner:)

Posted By: Audry | Feb 16, 2011 10:39:00 AM

David Archuleta, HANDS DOWN!!! I live in NY and I'd make the treck just to see David. He'a the best singer out there and yes, he is phenomenal!

Posted By: Bebereader | Feb 16, 2011 10:46:29 AM

Fest needs to book Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. Look them up.

Posted By: Bob Quigney | Feb 16, 2011 11:03:24 AM

David Archuleta all the way!!!!

Real and raw, amazing performer, his singing takes you on a wonderful intoxicating ride. Have traveled hundreds of miles to see him any opportunity I have. Never sings a song the same, he's a genius at changing up melodies and commands the stage and audience.

And for dissing and being petty to Adam, I don't know where you get that impression, no one here has said anything derogatory about him.

Posted By: djafan | Feb 16, 2011 11:03:24 AM

David Archuleta is super talented with a beautiful voice, but if I had to choose I would pick Adam Lambert. I've already watched the previews of the tour DVD on youtube and it brings it all back how amazing and incredibly fun his concert was. Preordered that shizz on Amazon immediately. But since he'll be in the studio working on his 2nd album for the next several months, it's unlikely to happen. Maybe Musikfest can have David this year and Adam next year!

Posted By: Lissy | Feb 16, 2011 11:27:57 AM

I just threw up a little bit, in my mouth.

Posted By: 12w33d | Feb 16, 2011 11:55:15 AM

American Idol is terrible and so are all the acts that originate from it.

Thank you.

Posted By: who stole my tricycle | Feb 16, 2011 12:22:11 PM

Dear @who stole my tricycle,

Who stole your ears?!!

American Idol has the BEST singers coming from the show. It's a show based on real talent. They can actually sing. Go figure! They put to shame some of the most overrated singers that are played on the radio ad nauseam!! I won't list any,but when you get your ears back,you'll know what I mean.

Adam Lambert and David Archuleta happen to be two of the best to originate from the show! Total opposites,stylistically....both have beautiful voices!!

John Moser,

For what it's worth,thank you for coming forward with the readers' picks. I know it must have been hard for you to acknowledge Adam's feat,but you did the right thing. Now perhaps you could look at him with your eyes wide-open and stop being such a 'crabby pants' where he's concerned. He's very talented and a really nice guy!!

Posted By: B | Feb 16, 2011 1:06:29 PM

David Archuleta! We should all respect all fans. Music is personal.

Posted By: FG | Feb 16, 2011 1:07:28 PM

I would love to see David headline this show! He never has ever given a bad performance. He hypnotizes...and mesmerizes the minute he comes out on stage. It is very difficult to take your eyes off him because of his energetic performance and banter with the crowd!! He is more than just a beautiful voice and talent. His beautiful heart is felt by the crowd in everything that he sings and says! He truly connects his music and his heart with the crowd on every song. His fabulous new album.."The Other Side of Down" ...has 12 great songs that I cannot wait to hear him sing...LIVE and IN PERSON!! He can sing anything beautifully!

If you make it happen... huge crowds will come!!!

Posted By: SHARON | Feb 16, 2011 1:10:52 PM

i happen to agree with some of the smart bloggers here.....get rid of the american idol crap.

Posted By: tony choy | Feb 16, 2011 1:16:41 PM

I've seen David more than 5 times and if he were to perform there, I will travel to see him since I live pretty far haha. Seeing him live is a completely fun and amazing experience, no one will ever be disappointed.

Posted By: MC | Feb 16, 2011 1:21:20 PM

Just say the word that David Archuleta will be performing at Musikfest and I'll be there in a flash! His live performances are fabulous and his vocals are second to none! If you've never seen him in concert, you don't know what you're missing. He is an incredible talent!

Posted By: abms | Feb 16, 2011 1:23:57 PM

I will bet more than half of these comments for these two are from people outside the area, only here because a Google Alert or something told them Archuleta or Lambert were mentioned.

Posted By: Jason | Feb 16, 2011 1:43:28 PM

Jason ~ Does it matter where people are from? People travel near and far to hear good music. I happen to be from Philly!

Posted By: abms | Feb 16, 2011 1:48:21 PM

A couple of crazy fans spammed the votes and then spammed the comments. Both Adam Lambert and David Archuletta are over-rated. Neither one even went platinum in the US.

Posted By: Alex | Feb 16, 2011 1:54:20 PM

I hadn't paid money to see anyone perform live in over 20 years...until Adam Lambert came along. I went to his show 4 times (all having to travel as he didn't hit a city in my state) including traveling from Alabama to LA to see the final GNT show. Best times I ever had in my life! Adam puts on an amazing show and his vocals spread over you like gittery butter :) But the other person is right Adam won't be doing any festivals this summer as he's working on 2nd album and by the time the NEXT summer rolls around he will most like BE in the "too big to be likely" group of artists so I'd say get him IF YOU CAN. David Archuleta is a sweet kid and he can definitely sing from what I remember on Idol but I voted for Cook during Season 7.

Posted By: number8gurl | Feb 16, 2011 2:25:11 PM

@Alex, Adam has already sold out Muskifest before so him not being platium in the US is not a problem. David Cook is platinum in the US but he could not sell out Muskifest when he performed. Besides, Adam is has sold over 1m albums worldwide and sold out concerts in the US and overseas because he in an international star. He has gold and platinum albums and singles in US and other countries so no need to worry about his album sales in the US. Hope this makes you feel a litter better. But most likely it just pisses you off even more cause nobody is talking about your guy.

Posted By: Blaine | Feb 16, 2011 2:31:51 PM

number8grandma is a typical Sparkle Cow. Adam Lambert's fans are old ladies in bejewelled girdles. I went to a concert and took so many pictures to laugh at with my friends I nearly burned out my camera. We spent to day shouting MOOOOOOO everywhere we went. LOLOL

Posted By: Alex | Feb 16, 2011 2:36:13 PM

Musikfest customers don't give a rat's patootie if he sold a dozen CDs in Finland to get platinum somewhere on Earth. He's a failure right out of the gate.

Posted By: Alex | Feb 16, 2011 2:38:34 PM

Enough with the American Idol crap. How bout some real acts that should be on the Musikfest stage. You have the Scorpions on their farewell tour this year and that would draw a huge crowd for the fest. Also would KISS but I think the Musikfest stage would be too small for a show like that. There never seems to be many good rock bands at Musickfest anymore. Last one was Staind several years back. Nickelback and Ozzy would be great shows too. Most American Idol stars have gone along the wayside since they've been off the show except for Carrie Underwood and that weirdo Lambert which actually stiffed the crowd last year with that short set he did.

Posted By: troy | Feb 16, 2011 2:39:59 PM

troy, do not ever say the names Carrie and Lambert in the same breath. Ever. Don't ever say that loser's name with any other Idol while you're at it.

Posted By: Stanley | Feb 16, 2011 2:47:06 PM

Wow - lots of nasty fans here. As one who voted for both Archie and Lambert to win on Idol, please don't be so negative about these two great guys. Both are terrific singers and I'd love to see either, or both of them, in performance. Why is it necessary to diss one in order to praise the other? There's no competition between them. (And, as far as Idol is concerned, yes - they produce people who can actually sing without autotune and special mics like too many of the prominent pop stars. Unfortunately, today you don't have to be an excellent singer to make it.)

Posted By: Leigh | Feb 16, 2011 2:58:50 PM

Alex: Booooooo!

Posted By: Joseph | Feb 16, 2011 3:23:42 PM

Adam Lambert will definitely sold out the venue again. Imagine his fans will be so hungry for his live concert since he'll be concentrate on working on his 2nd album. Regarding the singing voice, both Adam and David have beautiful voice. However when it comes to stage presence and charisma, Dave has lot to learn yet. But he is so cute though.

Posted By: Joseph | Feb 16, 2011 3:31:53 PM

I doubt that anyone posting on this board would know if Adam is available to do Muskifest this summer as they don't work for Adam or the label. Best to let Adam decide if he is able to do any one-offs. Also for the hater who is bitter because Adam has fans while some idols don't, there is help for people like you. Like a job that pays. Maybe then your hostility against a singer that you don't know and his fans will fade just a bit.

Posted By: Kit | Feb 16, 2011 3:48:10 PM

incubus!!!!!!!!!!

Posted By: poopsie | Feb 16, 2011 3:51:43 PM

Respectfully, Panic! at the Disco never "broke up". Two members, only one of which was a founding member, did leave the band but the band did not end. Furthermore, they've got a new album coming out on March 22nd, Vices & Virtues. So they are also not merely a "reconstituted" band that is merely "touring".

How about adding Danny Gokey and Alisan Iraheta to the lineup? NELSON (Matthew and Gunnar Nelson)would be a great addition as well!! Also Kevin Costner & Modern West. Now there's a great show lineup to go with ADAM LAMBERT and David A. = )

The comments to this entry have been closed.

JOHN J. MOSER has been around long enough to have seen the original Ramones in a small club in New Jersey, U2 from the fourth row of a theater and Bob Dylan's born-again tours. But he also has the number for All-American Rejects' Nick Wheeler on his cell phone, wrote the first story ever done on Jack's Mannequin and hung out in Wiz Khalifa's hotel room.

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS

JODI DUCKETT: As The Morning Call's assistant features editor responsible for entertainment, she spends a lot of time surveying the music landscape and sizing up the Valley's festivals and club scene. She's no expert, but enjoys it all — especially artists who resonated in her younger years, such as Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Tracy Chapman, Santana and Joni Mitchell.

KATHY LAUER-WILLIAMS enjoys all types of music, from roots rock and folk to classical and opera. Music has been a constant backdrop to her life since she first sat on the steps listening to her mother’s Broadway LPs when she was 2. Since becoming a mother herself, she has become well-versed on the growing genre of kindie rock and, with her son in tow, can boast she has seen a majority of the current kid’s performers from Dan Zanes to They Might Be Giants.

STEPHANIE SIGAFOOS: A Jersey native raised in Northeast PA, she was reared in a house littered with 8-tracks, 45s and cassette tapes of The Beatles, Elvis, Meatloaf and Billy Joel. She also grew up on the sounds of Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw and can be found traversing the countryside in search of the sounds of a steel guitar. A fan of today's 'new country,' she digs mainstream/country-pop crossovers like Lady Antebellum and Sugarland and other artists that illustrate the genre's diversity.